Solved Static electricity concerns

[kirakun2]

Hi there, i'll be installing a new hard disk and a memory card. I've heard about static electricity damaging electronic components.
I've heard that touching the metal case or any metal object earths you. Any tips i can get, and i can't buy antistatic wrist band cause they are not available here.
Thank you.

 

[Golden]

I've heard that touching the metal case

If you do the above every time before you touch other components you will be fine

Regards,
Golden

 

[tlarseth]

I use a static strap, it goes around your wrist and clips to the metal on the case, but then the strap does get in the way a lot.

 

[DarkStar GT]

^^^^
Just wonderin' - would it be OK to put the strap round an ankle? If it's long enough and you don't try to walk away.

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But there is one thing that does confuse me. Info for antistatic straps refers to connecting the other end to something that is groiunded. If that is the computer case, then surely it is grounded only if it is plugged in to the mains supply. And, if so, then there is 240V (in the UK) flowing into the box and the power supply capacitors are charged.

Or is the purpose of the strap to keep the potential the same between me and the computer case only?

 

[tlarseth]

^^^^
Just wonderin' - would it be OK to put the strap round an ankle? If it's long enough and you don't try to walk away.

Basically you want the strap to be between your main body and what you are working with the wrist that is going to be reaching inside the case is the best and should be only place for the strap.

What happens is when you touch something static electricity travels from your main body to an object your hand touches, so you want the strap there in the path to attempt to channel/divert that Static Electricity to something else instead of your brand new Hard Drive. They are not 100% as nothing to do with electricity is, even grounding rods on houses fail at least 5-10% of the time.

 

[kirakun2]

Thnx everyone

 

[tlarseth]

Just glad we could help, if you have any other questions feel free to ask.